Data commonly appears in
plain text or clear text form. For a number of reasons, it sometimes becomes
necessary to hide or disguise the data. During such circumstances, people
choose to encrypt the information to protect it from hackers and other
unauthorized users. Encrypted data is unreadable as the process of encryption
converts the clear text into cipher text hence preserving the integrity of the
file. Data encryption is typically performed by businesses and corporations who
have sensitive data to store and protect against unintended recipients.
How it Works
The
way in which data encryption is achieved is the sender provides a password to
the intended user in a discrete email or via a secured phone line. When the
user obtains the encrypted data, he/she will have to use the provided password
to decipher the code back to its normal clear text form.
To
encrypt and decrypt covert messages, one must use the method of cryptography.
It employs mathematics to store sensitive data. A computer user can transfer
the coded data through an unsecured connection without worrying that the
content will be compromised. A scientific formula known as "cryptographic
algorithm" runs in combination with a code, which can be either a number
combination or a phrase, to encrypt the data. The plain text can be converted
into cipher text using various keys. Employing a dynamic cryptographic formula
and keeping the password in secrecy are imperative steps for the entire process
to work.
Types of Encryption
There
are different types of encryption. The ubiquitous browser and email encryptions
are the most usual types. Browsers automatically hide information through a
secure server. The encrypted domain has the traceable address starting with
HTTPS, with the "S" connoting secure. The server then decodes the information
when it arrives. For emails, the function of PGP is the normal encryption
chosen. This hides private messages, sensitive documents, and folders.
Encrypting
a hard drive is another common form of encryption. This maintains the security
and integrity of sensitive information. Comprehensive hard disk drive
encryption, restriction of user operator encryptions, and creation of an
individual encrypted virtual drive that solely constitutes of hidden data are
the three techniques for encrypting a hard drive.
Why Encryption?
Encryption
has long been performed by government agencies and military forces to carry out
covert communication. Today, it is also used by civilians and commercial groups
to facilitate data security. In previous years, there have been multitude
reports of sensitive information like client's personal records being accessed
and used via lost ot stolen laptops or external hard drives. By encrypting data
stored in your computer, you are protecting yourself in case tactile security
protocols are unsuccessful. Another good example of encrypting data at rest is
that of Digital rights management systems that avert unintended access or
reproduction of copyrighted content and safeguard programs against reverse
engineering.
Though
encryption can individually protect the secrecy and confidentiality of files
and documents, there are other methods still needed to achieve maximum security
for your data; for instance, a MAC, short for message authentication code,
confirmation and/or a digital signature. Keep in mind that advance hackers and
cryptographers can still access and use messages without decrypting it, usually
through specialized techniques and software like Tempest and Trojan Horse.
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